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Summary: RedOrbit NEWS | Researchers Reveal Genetic Code of Papaya http://www.redorbit.com/modules/news/tools.php?tool=print&id=1356702
1 of 1 4/24/2008 6:39 PM
Researchers Reveal Genetic Code of Papaya
Researchers recently published the full DNA sequence of the "SunUp" papaya, discovering genes that
cause the tree evolve and also help it smell and taste good.
Maqsudul Alam of the University of Hawaii and colleagues wrote the report, which was published in the
journal Nature.
They said they think they have discovered the genetic cause for the evolution of tree-like plants, and
also noted that papayas appear to have extra genes that code for aromas and storing starch, which
causes their attraction for animals and people to spread its seeds.
Also, the papaya had less genes than the previously coded Arabdopsis, but its DNA sequence is longer.
"This also foreshadows what we might expect to discover in the genomes of other fragrant-fruited trees,
as well as plants with striking fragrance of leaves (herbs), flowers or other organs," Maqsudul Alam of
the University of Hawaii and researchers from 22 institutions wrote
"Papaya is an exceptionally promising system for the exploration of tropical-tree genomes and fruit-tree
genomics," they added.
"Arguably, the sequencing of the genome of SunUp papaya makes it the best-characterized commercial
transgenic crop."
Global trade of papaya reached about $113 million between 1998-2003.
"Papaya is ranked first on nutritional scores among 38 common fruits, based on the percentage of the
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